Effect of Tick-Borne Haemoparasitic Diseases on Haematological Parameters of Small Ruminants Managed Under Semi-intensive System in Wukari Town Taraba State Nigeria

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the effect of tick-borne haemo-parasitic diseases on haematological parameters of small ruminants managed under semi-intensive system in Wukari town Taraba State, Nigeria. A total of 100 blood samples were collected from sheep (n = 50) and goats (n = 50) from February to March, 2023. Giemsa stained blood smears were prepared and examined under light microscope, to screen for haemo-parasites. Packed cell volume (PCV) was determined by microhaematocrit centrifugation technique while haemoglobin (Hb) concentration was determined by Sahli’s method. The total white blood cell (WBC) was estimated with Neubauer haemocytometer. The results showed 13% overall prevalence of tick-borne haemo-parasitic diseases. Prevalence based on specie of animal was higher in goats (16%) than in sheep (10%). Prevalence was observed higher in adults than the young, and there was significant difference between age and prevalence of the haemo-parasites. Sex-wise, prevalence of haemo parasites in both goats and sheep was significantly higher in females than males. Anaplasma infection was more prevalent than Babesia infection in both species of the animals examined. The mean values of PCV, Hb concentration of infected sheep were significantly (P<0.05) lower than the uninfected sheep. Similarly, the mean values of PCV and Hb concentration were significantly (p<0.05) lower in infected goats. This study has confirmed that tick-borne haemo-parasitic diseases cause anaemia in infected goats and sheep kept in the study area. We recommend tick control using suitable acaricides, periodic screening and treatment of small ruminants in the study area.